On Thu, Apr 17, 2014 at 12:59 PM, Martin Reser wrote:

> Ron, Does the tallow smell? What is it's consistency like, heavy grease?
> Does it get sloppy in warm weather? Inquiring Galoots want to know.
>

 I also use tallow so I figure I can field this.  The tallow does have a
subtle smell but not one that is objectionable.  Kind of like how you can
smell linseed oil but it is not bad.  Nothing like cooking hide glue.  I
like the smell and so does my cat.

The consistency is sort of a thick paste or thick greece.  Not runny at all
and it will form stiff peaks.  My basement only gets into the mid 70s in
the summer so I have no idea what it does at higher temperatures.  Even if
it did turn oily it would just make applying it no different than any oil
lube.

Something to note that I have yet to experience is the dark black marks on
many older wooden planes, especially british origin, are from tallow that
has darkened over the ages.  I believe I learned this on an episode of
Woodwright's Shop so I figure St. Roy knows his historical stuff so it is
probably true.  I love the look but unfortunately my planes have not picked
it up at all.

Bob